๐ How Gen Z Buyers Are Changing the Game in Bakersfield

1๏ธโฃ Zero-Down & Low-Down Loans = Early Entry
Instead of waiting for a 20% down payment, Gen Z buyers are using programs like:
- 0% down FHA / down payment assistance
- 3% down conventional
- 3.5% down FHA
That’s getting people into homes years sooner than their parents or older millennials.
2๏ธโฃ 5/1 ARMs for Lower Payments Now
With Bakersfield’s median price around $400K, a 5/1 ARM can offer:
- Lower initial monthly payments
- Higher purchasing power
- A runway until rates drop again
Gen Z sees this not as a risk — but as a strategy.
3๏ธโฃ Digital-First Homebuying
This generation researches neighborhoods, compares lenders, and shops for homes from their phone — which fits Bakersfield’s spread-out geography and fast-moving market perfectly.
4๏ธโฃ Build Equity Instead of Paying $1,580/mo in Rent
When rent is nearly $1,600/month on average, and many starter-home mortgage payments are comparable (or lower with ARMs/zero-down), it makes financial sense for Gen Z to start building wealth now.
๐ What Real Estate Agents & Lenders Should Keep in Mind
Gen Z buyers in Bakersfield respond best to:
- Clear, transparent numbers
- Flexible loan options
- Side-by-side comparisons (rent vs. buy, down payments, ARM vs. fixed)
- A roadmap for the next 5–7 years (not just the first loan)
This generation cares less about the “perfect” home and more about not missing their window to start building equity.
๐ฏ Ready to Buy Your First Home in Bakersfield? Get Pre-Approved Today.
If you’re Gen Z — or any first-time buyer — the smartest move you can make right now is getting pre-approved before rates shift again and inventory moves.
A pre-approval will:
- Show you exactly what you can afford
- Lock in opportunities for zero-down or low-down financing
- Make you a stronger, faster, more competitive buyer
- Put you ahead of renters still waiting on the sidelines
I’ll run your numbers, explore every available program, and give you a clear plan — even if you’re not ready to buy for a few months.
๐ Start your Bakersfield pre-approval here:
https://www.freshhomeloan.com/buy
Garrick Werdmuller
President CEO
Fresh Home Loan Inc.
4900 California Ave 210-B
Bakersfield, CA 93309
(661)-727-7077
NMLS 242952
All loan approvals are conditional and not guaranteed and subject to lender review of all information. Loan is conditionally approved when lender has issued approval in writing, but until all conditions are met, loan cannot be funded. Specified rates and [products may not be available to all borrowers. Rates subject to change according to market conditions and agreed upon lock times set by borrower. Fresh Home Loan Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Mortgage Broker in California. This licensee is performing acts for which a real estate license is required. Fresh Home Loan, Inc. is licensed by the California Department of Real Estate #02137513 NMLS # 2124104













